Farmers’ organizations prove that great things can be achieved when everyone speaks with one voice.
Ten years ago, the picture of farmer mental health was far from rosy in Quebec. The research confirmed a higher rate of suicide than in the general population, as well as stress and depression with the associated human tragedies.
Community mobilization led to the creation of a Farmers’ Rest Home in Saint-Hyacinthe, which also offers quality listening, support and companionship services.
Thirteen workers, known as row workers, also work in Quebec’s nine agricultural regions to provide services adapted to a sector that has its own specificities.
mobilization and awareness
Isabelle Sauriol, Coordinator of the Occupational Health and Safety Service at the Union of Agricultural Producers (UPA), confirms the popularity of these services. It’s difficult, she says, to link her enthusiasm to declining farmers’ mental health or altered perceptions due to a lack of data.
The good news is that they are more likely to ask for help.
“Not much has changed for them as a result of the pandemic: they are used to working alone and under pressure. But they are affected by labor problems, rising costs and climate change.”
The change of tone in recent years is closely linked to the community’s desire to take a stronger position on the issue of mental health, Ms Sauriol said.
The PAU itself has established a mental health unit in its 12 regional offices.
Additionally, since 2016, 4,000 people working in agriculture have been trained by the Suicide Prevention Center to recognize signs of distress.
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